Preliminary identification

Chinese Famille Verte and Iron-Red Ground 'Warrior' Vase

Photo reference

5 uploaded photos

Overview

An elegant pear-shaped porcelain vase featuring a vibrant iron-red ground with a large reserve depicting warriors in dynamic combat. Painted in the classic Famille Verte palette, the figures are rendered with expressive detail, complete with banners bearing their names, set against a rich, coral-like red glaze.

Story

During the late Qing dynasty, Chinese potters looked back to the golden age of Emperor Kangxi for inspiration. This vase depicts legendary warriors from classic Chinese literature, bringing ancient tales of loyalty and battle to life on porcelain. The accompanying wooden box suggests it was once highly prized by a Japanese collector.

Maker / Origin

While unsigned, this piece was crafted by skilled artisans in Jingdezhen, the historic porcelain capital of China. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, private kilns in this region specialized in high-quality revivals of imperial Kangxi-era designs to meet intense demand from international collectors.

Condition & Value

The vase appears to be in good condition with no visible cracks or major chips. There is minor wear to the iron-red glaze near the rim and foot, which is typical for its age. Excellent preservation of the enamel colors. The presence of the original wooden storage box adds protective and historical value.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.